Public Health

The BSc (Hons) Public Health programme at the University of Sunderland offers students a comprehensive understanding of the core principles, challenges, and strategies involved in promoting health and well-being across diverse populations. Designed to equip future public health practitioners with essential knowledge and practical skills, this degree encompasses a wide range of topics including epidemiology, health promotion, disease prevention, policy development, and health systems management. Throughout the course, students will explore the social, economic, and environmental determinants of health, gaining insights into how these factors influence health outcomes and disparities.

The programme emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating perspectives from sociology, psychology, and medicine to provide a holistic view of public health issues. Students will have opportunities to develop critical thinking and analytical skills essential for assessing public health data, designing interventions, and evaluating their effectiveness. The course also focuses on developing professional competencies in communication, teamwork, and leadership, preparing graduates for roles in government agencies, non-profit organizations, healthcare settings, and research institutions.

Practical experience is a key element of the programme, with placements and project work enabling students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts. The curriculum is regularly updated to reflect current public health challenges such as infectious disease outbreaks, lifestyle-related health issues, and health inequalities. Graduates of this programme will be well-positioned to contribute to improving population health outcomes, influence health policy, and promote sustainable health initiatives locally, nationally, and internationally. Whether aiming to develop a career in health promotion, policy analysis, or public health research, students will find the programme to be both academically rigorous and highly relevant to current global health needs.

Detailed Course Facts

• GBP 7800 Year (EEA)
• GBP 9500 Year (International)

• English

Course Content

• Community Perspectives on Health (20 Credits)
• The Politics of Health (20 Credits)
• Work-based Practice (20 Credits)
• Fundamentals of Social Sciences (20 Credits)
• Introduction to Research (20 Credits)
• Determinants of Health (20 Credits)

• Research Methods in Health (20 Credits)
• Social Exclusion (20 Credits)
• Introduction to Epidemiology (20 credits)

Optional modules (choose 4):

• Health Improvement (20 Credits)
• Drug and Alcohol Issues in Health (20 Credits)
• Contemporary Issues in Health (20 Credits)
• Work-based Partnerships (20 Credits)

• Law and Ethics (20 Credits)
• Critical Issues in Health (20 Credits)
• Dissertation (40 Credits)

Optional modules (choose 2):

• Global Issues in Health (20 Credits)
• Building Healthy Communities (20 Credits)
• Public Mental Health (20 credits)
• Placement (20 Credits)

Please note: some modules contain a placement element, so you will be required to obtain a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check at the start of the course.

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6 CAE score : 60(Grade C)

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

A typical offer will be in the region of 260 points from a minimum of two A Levels or equivalent (e.g. 1 x AVCE double award).

We accept a maximum of 20 points from Level 3 Key Skills qualifications.

We also require three passes at GCSE grade C or above, which must include Mathematics and English Language; or a minimum of Level 2 Key Skills in Communication and Application of Number.

If you have already covered one or more of the topics covered by the course, and would like to apply for accreditation of prior learning (APL), please contact the course leader.

Other acceptable qualifications

BTEC National: 260 points from a BTEC Certificate or Diploma.

Access Courses: We would require successful completion of a Quality Assurance

Agency for Higher Education Access programme and that you would have a minimum of grade C in GCSE in Mathematics and English Language or have obtained the equivalent as part of your course.

Scottish Highers: Our typical offer is for 260 points.

Irish Leaving Certificate: Our typical offer is for 260 points.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of Sunderland.

Funding

Scholarships on offer include cash bursaries, reduced tuition fees, free accommodation and free public transport.

The BSc (Hons) Public Health programme at the University of Sunderland is designed to equip students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills necessary for a career in the public health sector. This programme focuses on the study of health promotion, disease prevention, health inequalities, and the social determinants of health. Students will explore how policies, community programs, and individual behaviors influence health outcomes across different populations. The course content includes modules on epidemiology, health policy, research methods, and health communication, providing a well-rounded understanding of the vital components that contribute to public health initiatives. The programme adopts a blend of theoretical learning and practical application, including case studies, group work, and opportunities for research. Students are encouraged to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills relevant to addressing contemporary public health challenges. The curriculum is regularly reviewed to ensure it reflects current trends and issues in public health, including the impact of globalization, technological advancements, and emerging health threats. The University of Sunderland offers excellent facilities, including dedicated laboratories and access to healthcare data, supporting student learning and research activities. Upon graduation, students are prepared for diverse roles within local and national health agencies, non-profit organizations, and private sectors involved in health promotion, policy planning, and health education. The programme also provides a strong foundation for those wishing to pursue postgraduate study or professional training in public health, epidemiology, or related fields. Throughout their studies, students benefit from the expertise of experienced faculty members who are actively engaged in public health research and practice. The programme aims to produce graduates who are knowledgeable, competent, and motivated to make meaningful contributions to improving public health outcomes worldwide.